RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister, Bhupesh Baghel, has taken a significant step in extending a helping hand to rain-devastated Himachal Pradesh. Amid the havoc caused by heavy rains and landslides, Baghel has pledged a financial aid of Rs. 11 crore to the beleaguered state. 

Following a telephonic discussion with Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Baghel expressed his concern for the dire circumstances prevailing in the northern region. In a formal statement released on Friday, Baghel acknowledged the profound natural catastrophe that has befallen Himachal Pradesh, fondly known as the 'Devbhoomi' or land of gods. He highlighted the solidarity and support pouring in from the people of Chhattisgarh towards the distressed residents of Himachal Pradesh.

The Chief Minister announced his decision to provide Rs. 11 crore on behalf of Chhattisgarh's populace to the Himachal Pradesh government, aimed at aiding the relief and rehabilitation efforts for the disaster victims. As per recent reports from Himachal Pradesh authorities, the toll of rain-related incidents has tragically risen to 72 since Sunday night, with Shimla alone witnessing 21 casualties. The incessant downpour has triggered landslides in Shimla and other districts of the hill state.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has projected substantial rainfall in the mountainous territories of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, expected to persist until August 23. Recent days have witnessed a shift from heavy showers to milder rainfall in some localities. Since the onset of the monsoon on June 24, a distressing total of 217 lives have been lost due to rain-associated mishaps in Himachal Pradesh.

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